- >Best Crypto Exchanges
- >CEX.IO Review: The Best Advanced Cryptocurrency Exchange?
CEX.IO Review 2025: Features, Fees, and Flexibility
CEX.IO is a well-established cryptocurrency exchange that has been serving digital asset traders since 2013. Based in London, the CEX crypto trading platform is regulated across 30+ US states and serves over 6 million people worldwide. The exchange is a secure, user-friendly gateway to cryptocurrency trading, offering basic and advanced features for traders of all experience levels.
Please note that some links on CryptoVantage.com are affiliate links. We may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you click through our links and make a purchase from one of our partners.
Why CEX.IO Exchange Stands Out
- Long-running cryptocurrency exchange
- Withdrawals to credit cards
- Robust mobile app
- Staking available on site
Pros
User-friendly interface suitable for beginners
Staking and savings available to grow your crypto holdings
Withdrawal of FIAT directly to credit/debit cards
Easy sign-up, KYC process for verifying account and unlocking all features
Cons
Limited number of crypto assets are supported
Independent audits rate them as average or slightly below industry-standard security
High fees compared to competitors
CEX.IO at a Glance
Notable Features
Spot trading, margin trading (up to 20x), staking, instant buy/sell, mobile app, crypto debit card, savings accounts
Fees
0.15%-0.25% base trading fees (maker/taker), tiered reductions available based on volume
Cryptocurrencies
160+ digital assets with 450+ trading pairs including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and major altcoins
Security Features
Two-factor authentication, cold storage, SSL encryption, multi-signature wallets, PCI DSS compliance
KYC Requirements
Full identity verification with government ID, proof of address, and selfie verification
Maximum Daily Deposit Amount
Varies by verification level and payment method: Credit cards up to $3,000, Bank transfers have higher limits
Get Started
In-depth Details: What’s to Like and What You Should Know
CEX exchange is a cryptocurrency platform that successfully bridges traditional finance with digital assets. They provide access to over 200 cryptocurrencies across 450+ trading pairs, including major assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and emerging altcoins. The platform offers multiple trading environments to accommodate different skill levels, from instant buy/sell services for quick transactions to advanced margin trading.
Serving over 6 million registered users, they also provide staking services, flexible and locked savings accounts, and a mobile app that delivers full functionality across iOS and Android platforms.
History and Background
Our CEX review wouldn’t be complete without a little background. The company was founded in 2013 under the leadership of entrepreneur Oleksandr Lutskevych, initially operating as a Bitcoin mining pool and cloud mining services platform known as GHash.IO. The company owned the GHash.io pool, which became the only mining pool in history to control over 50% of the Bitcoin network, though they never executed a potential 51% attack.
Following cryptocurrency regulatory changes, particularly in China, they turned from mining operations to focus exclusively on exchange services. The company suspended its cloud mining in 2016 and added Ethereum to its platform, marking its transformation into the comprehensive trading platform it is today.
Safety and Security
Essential security measures are implemented that meet industry standards for retail crypto exchanges. They have maintained a clean security record with no major hacks or breaches since their 2013 launch.
They also have AML/KYC policies, screening users against recognized sanctions and Politically Exposed Persons lists using WorldCompliance data and World-Check One tools. Independent security audits rate them as adequate rather than industry-leading.
Here are some of the things that caught my eye:
- Two-Factor Authentication: Mandatory 2FA using authenticator apps or SMS verification for all accounts.
- Cold Storage: The majority of user funds are stored offline in geographically distributed cold wallets.
- PCI DSS Compliance: Level 1 certification ensures secure payment card data handling.
- Multi-Signature Wallets: Enhanced fund security through multiple approval requirements.
- SSL Encryption: Industry-standard TLS 1.2 encryption for all communications and transactions.
- KYC/AML Compliance: Comprehensive identity verification and anti-money laundering screening.
- Account Monitoring: Real-time transaction monitoring and suspicious activity detection.
- Insurance Coverage: US customer fiat balances are insured up to regulatory limits.
- Regular Audits: Ongoing security assessments, though lacking advanced penetration testing.
My Overview:
CEX.IO is very easy to use and doesn’t make crypto confusing. Even if you’re new to trading, buying coins or earning staking rewards is quick and simple. Everything you need is in one clean dashboard. Nothing feels complicated or overwhelming.
Special features
There is an extensive suite of features that meet various needs across the cryptocurrency spectrum. These include basic services for newcomers and advanced tools for professional traders.
Multiple trading environments are provided for, including instant buy/sell services and the Exchange Plus platform for sophisticated trading. Margin trading is available with leverage options up to 20x across various cryptocurrency pairs.
Additionally, staking is supported for popular cryptocurrencies, including Polkadot (10% APY), Cardano (3-4% APY), and Cosmos (8-9% APY). Staking rewards are calculated hourly and distributed monthly, with no minimum lock-up periods required for most assets.
The platform offers both flexible and locked savings accounts, with flexible accounts that enable daily withdrawals. Locked accounts offer higher rewards for 30-90 day commitments. Users can earn up to 12% annually on stablecoins.
Conveniently, users can enjoy a cryptocurrency debit card that lets them spend their digital assets at locations worldwide, bridging the gap between crypto holdings and everyday purchases.
CEX.IO Prime is built for businesses and professional traders who need deeper liquidity and more advanced trading tools. It offers support for high-volume spot and margin trades, custom API solutions, and access to aggregated liquidity from top providers, all in one platform. Everyday users don’t need Prime, but for firms or institutional clients, it’s a solid option if larger trades and custom setups matter most.
Usability
Usability is an important factor in our CEX exchange review. Fortunately, the user experience feels smooth whether you’re new or experienced with crypto. The site’s clean dashboard keeps things clear, and swapping between instant buys, margin trades, and staking is simple. If you just want to buy coins, it’s direct, no mess.
If you’re into more advanced tools, the charts and order types are all there, powered by TradingView. Margin trading goes up to 20x leverage, and staking pays out real, competitive rewards. The mobile app lets you do everything on the go, and the crypto debit card means you can actually spend those coins in the real world.
Customer support
Customer support includes live chat, email ticketing, and a help center. There is an AI-powered chatbot for initial inquiries, with escalation to human agents for complex issues. Support is also available in multiple languages.
That said, user reviews indicate mixed experiences with customer support, with some praising the responsiveness of live chat while others report slower response times during peak periods. Fortunately, there is an extensive library of documentation and educational resources to help you resolve common issues independently.
Mobile Apps
The CEX crypto exchange has a mobile app that gets straight to the point. It’s easy to download, quick to set up, and all the important actions are only a tap away. Whether you’re trading, staking, tracking your coins, or getting price alerts, everything works on both iOS and Android.
The app supports instant buys, deep asset management, and secure multi-chain transfers, so handling crypto is never a hassle. Security is built right in with biometrics and device controls, plus real-time notifications to keep you updated and safe.
Mobile Apps
- Instant Buy/Sell: Quick cryptocurrency purchases using preferred payment methods, including credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers
- Portfolio Analytics: Real-time monitoring of holdings and performance with detailed insights
- Price Alerts: Customizable notifications for price movements and market events
- Educational Resources: Comprehensive learning materials and market analysis
- API Access: RESTful APIs for algorithmic trading and portfolio management
- Multi-Currency Support: Support for multiple fiat currencies and payment methods
- Recurring Purchases: Automated dollar-cost averaging with scheduled crypto purchases
The True Cost of Trading on This Exchange
CEX.IO employs a tiered fee structure based on monthly trading volume, with rates ranging from 0.25% for users trading under $10,000 monthly down to 0.10% for those exceeding $20 million in monthly volume. The maker-taker model provides identical rates for both order types at each tier, simplifying fee calculations for users.
These rates apply to both spot and margin trades, and your tier is set by your most recent 30-day volume.
Does CEX.IO charge a monthly fee?
No, there are no monthly account maintenance fees. You only pay trading fees, withdrawal fees, and service-specific charges when you conduct transactions.
What Can You Buy on CEX.IO?
Over 160 cryptocurrencies are supported across 450+ trading pairs, with a focus on established projects and emerging tokens with strong fundamentals. The platform regularly evaluates new assets for listing, prioritizing security, liquidity, and regulatory compliance in its selection process.
Popular available cryptocurrencies include:
How To Set Up a CEX.IO Exchange Account
If you want to try the platform for yourself, here’s what you need to do:
- Visit the CEX.IO website or download the mobile application from official app stores
- Click “Sign Up” and provide your email address and secure password
- Complete email verification by clicking the confirmation link sent to your inbox
- Provide basic personal information, including your full name, date of birth, and country of residence
- Upload government-issued photo identification (passport, driver’s license, or national ID)
- Complete identity verification with a selfie and proof of address documents
- Set up mandatory two-factor authentication using Google Authenticator or SMS
- Complete any additional verification requirements based on your jurisdiction
- Fund your account through supported deposit methods
Identity verification usually takes minutes to hours, depending on document quality and regional requirements.
Why You Should Trust CryptoVantage: How I Reviewed CEX.IO
The CEX exchange review uses CryptoVantage’s framework, which rates each platform according to several practical factors in the actual trading experience. Here’s what matters most when determining the best crypto exchanges:
- Trade volumes and asset availability
- Trading features and tools
- Security
- Transparency, reputation and support
- Fees and added costs
- Ease of use
Final Thoughts: Is CEX.IO Worth It?
This exchange is a solid pick for anyone looking to buy, spend, and earn on a wide selection of coins. Its standout features are the free crypto debit card, flexible savings accounts, and simple staking options.
The variety of supported assets and user-friendly design help make everything from buying Bitcoin to earning interest straightforward, even for someone new to crypto. While trading fees and security are average compared to some competitors, the platform’s mix of practical tools and broad coin support should work for most traders and holders.
FAQs
Yes, it is a legitimate platform that’s been operating since 2013 and is registered with major financial regulators such as FinCEN in the US and the FCA in the UK. It holds proper licenses and undergoes regular audits, making it a standard option for buying, selling, and trading digital assets.
CEX.IO is a global cryptocurrency exchange where you can buy, sell, trade, and earn crypto through savings and staking programs. It supports hundreds of coins and lets users fund accounts with cards, bank transfers, or e-wallets. App and web interfaces are both available.
Yes, it uses industry-standard security for customer accounts, including encrypted data, two-factor authentication, cold storage for funds, and PCI DSS certification. While independent security audits rate it as average in terms of safe crypto exchanges, user funds have not been lost in a platform hack since its launch.
Yes, CEX.IO is available for US customers in most states and holds proper Money Transmitter Licenses (MTLs) in 35+ states. Some products, like advanced derivatives, may be restricted, but most Americans can use CEX.IO’s spot trading and brokerage services.
